INTRODUCTION

The state of Bihar is rich in its arts and crafts, which is quite evident from the fact that it is home to some of India’s first paintings, including the famous Madhubani paintings and the miniature paintings done on paper and leaves, wall decorations, patchwork, applique work and local handicrafts. Mithila, a region situated to the north of Bihar, is the place where the Madhubani paintings are believed to have originated. These paintings are Bihar’s most unique folk art, done on either paper or canvas by the women of Mithila. The Miniature paintings make use of leaves or paper and depict the lives of Buddha or Mahavira. They are sold to the pilgrims and tourists in Bodh Gaya and are quite popular. Bihar is also famous for stone pottery, white metal statuettes, bamboo artifacts, wooden toys and leather goods. Wood inlay is another ancient craft quite famous here. In this craft, the craftsmen use different wood and metal to create inlaid designs for table toys, wall plaque and trays. In north Bihar, a special grass called Sikki is found which when dyed in bright colours and woven with the natural grass makes excellent attractive baskets, boxes and figures

FOR EXAMPLES :

MADHUBANI PAINTING(DISTICT: ) SUJANI CRAFT( DISTICT :)

 TIKULI PANTING

Tikuli art is a unique art form of Bihar. Which contains a rich and deep traditional history. The word Tikuli is called Bindi in the local language which is usually in the form of a very shiny dot. The woman puts her forehead between the two eyebrows. In the past, Bindi was created as a poetic tool for worshiping the intellect and preserving the modesty of women. Tikuli art originated 800 years ago from Patna. The Mughals also patronized this form of art and greatly appreciated its importance. No art outside Bihar can be counted with Tikuli art. This art is a complex technique that requires a lot of hard work. This is a rare feature of Bihar and no such work is found anywhere else.

FIGURE :

The process of constructing Tikuli was very difficult and laborious. Earlier, the glass was melted in the furnace as a balloon. When cooled, it was harvested to the required size with a special tool. Then gold work was pasted on it. After that, with the sharp pencil of the boss, pictures of flowers, leaves, gods and goddesses were scratched and painted with various colors.Then it was coated with acacia glue. In the end, she was rubbed with a soft cloth. Its artists used to manufacture Tikuli in three parts. One artist inflated the glass as a balloon and cut it with a special kind of scissors, another made gold work on it, and the third scratched it with a bamboo pointed pencil and filled them with different colors. Due to this process it took seven to ten days to make one piece of Tikuli.

In the past times, Tikuli were mainly used by queens and aristocrat women. Beautiful hand crafted Tikuli were revered as proud possessions of the women. Now a days, the art of Tikuli making has been fused with Madhubani Paintings to make decorative wall plates, coasters, table mats, wall hanging, trays, pen stands and other utility items. This has increased the facets of this art and the scope of creativity for the artists. The fusion has not only created a new charm to the art but has also imparted an economic value to the produce.

During the last decade a new turning point in Tikuli painting came when hardboards were invented. Tikuli made through Inamal paint on wood was difficult because of its difficulty in transporting. But that problem was overcome when the hardboard arrived.Inspired by Ashok Biswas, Tikuli artists started using hardboards. For the last three-four years, a special type of wood (MDF Board) has also been used indiscriminately in Tikuli painting along with hardboard. The first hardboard or MDF pieces are cut into round, rectangular or square shapes. The enamel is then painted with a brush pasted on it. Each coat of paint is then rubbed with sand paper or water paper.When the board becomes shiny and smooth, the Mithila style painting is done with a brush of 000 sizes. Brushes of 000 sizes are used exclusively in the Tikuli art all over the world. This work is very difficult because to draw the design on the hardboard or MDF, thin lines have to be engraved on one hand. The underline is amazing in this. The conscience of paintings seems to be speaking and looks adorable.

Mithila painting has a clear influence in the paintings of Tikuli art at present. Hence, people often have the illusion that Tikuli painting and Mithila painting are the same. While the main difference between Mithila painting and Tikuli painting is that while Mithila painting is done on paper and cloth, painting in Tikuli painting is done on hardboard MDF.In Tikuli painting, it is heatproof and waterproof due to Inmel being painted. That is, durability is high in it. In Mithila painting the paintings are larger while in Tikuli painting are relatively small. A distinct and obvious difference between the two paintings is that Mithila painting has been confined mainly by the painters to religious subjects, while the Tikuli style depicts the life of the common people along with religion.

This style involved the making of small Bindi like dots from thin glass sheets and adorned with gold and silver foils. In modern times, it has been extended to other decorative items. Tikuli is a type of hand painting and its history spread over 800 years. The painting with its modern evolution and varied manifestations, find its origin in Patna, Bihar.

Tikuli art has a deep historical significance associated with it. Tikuli is the term that is locally used for bindis, which are essentially colorful dots that women wear as accessories between their eyebrows. The basic raw materials used in Tikuli craft is the MDF board and the colors. This is a unique product handcrafted by artisans. This crafts provide livelihood support to about 300-500 artisans families on regular basis in Digha, Danapur and Gai Ghat mahallas of Patna town of Bihar.

(Tikuli painting by Ashok Kumar Biswas)

One of the most appealing aspects of Tikuli art is its affordability. While it is a highly detailed and time-consuming craft, Tikuli art remains accessible for buyers of all budgets.

: Tikuli art jewelry like bangles, necklaces, and earrings are often sold in sets, with prices ranging from  depending on the complexity of the design and the size of the item.

: Tikuli art used in decorative items such as wall hangings, trays, and coasters can range from , depending on the design and the materials used.

: For custom-made Tikuli art, such as personalized gifts or larger items, prices can range from  or more.

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Tikuli art remains affordable due to the low-cost materials used, such as glass, dyes, and gold or silver leaf for finishing touches. Additionally, this craft is often made by local artisans who work in small-scale workshops, keeping overhead costs lower.

Supporting Tikuli art helps preserve this traditional craft while also making beautiful, handmade art accessible to people of all income levels.

Cultural Preservation: By purchasing Tikuli art, you're supporting the preservation of an ancient craft that has been practiced for centuries in Bihar. This art form is not only a way to adorn your home or body but also a way to celebrate and sustain the cultural heritage of Bihar.

Support Local Artisans: Many of the artists who make Tikuli art work in small-scale workshops and earn a living by selling their pieces. By buying Tikuli art, you are directly supporting these artisans and their families.

Eco-Friendly: Tikuli art uses natural dyes and glass, making it a sustainable option for buyers who are looking for eco-friendly products.

Unique Gifts: Whether you're looking for a gift for a loved one or a piece to add to your home, Tikuli art offers something truly unique and meaningful. No two pieces are exactly the same, and each one is a reflection of the artist’s skill and creativity.

Tikuli art is an extraordinary representation of the cultural richness of Bihar. It combines vibrant colors intricate designs, and centuries-old traditions, resulting in beautiful works of art that make perfect additions to any home or wardrobe. Whether you are buying Tikuli jewelry, wall decor, or simply supporting the preservation of this craft, you're making a valuable contribution to the art community of Bihar.

So, the next time you’re looking for something beautiful and unique, consider adding a piece of Tikuli art to your collection—at a price that’s just as beautiful!